NORTH Yorkshire Police are leading the hunt for a convicted murderer who has gone on the run.

William Kerr is wanted for emergency recall to prison after he breached his release licence.

The force said Kerr, 53, "needs to be arrested and returned to prison as a matter of urgency".

If spotted, people are asked not to approach him but instead to call the police immediately on 999.

Kerr was jailed for life for murder at Leeds Crown Court on June 26, 1998 and released on licence on 23 January 2015.

He and an accomplice had been convicted of the murder of Leeds woman Maureen Comfort whose body was found in a cupboard.

The National Offender Management Service contacted North Yorkshire Police for assistance after Kerr absconded from approved premises in Hull.

The Northern Echo:

WANTED MAN: William Kerr

His current whereabouts are not known, however he is known to have links to the Humberside, West Yorkshire and London areas. Officers are currently conducting extensive enquiries to locate him as a matter of urgency.

Detective Inspector Eamonn Clarke, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “To assist our already extensive efforts to trace William Kerr, I am urging people to keep an eye out for the man in the photographs.

“We ask that you do not approach Kerr, as he is considered dangerous. You should contact the police straight away on 999 and officers will be despatched to arrest him or investigate the sighting.”

DI Clarke also appealed directly to Kerr: “William, you know you have breached your licence conditions, and by continuing to do so you are only making things worse. It is now time to do the right thing and hand yourself in to the police.”

If you have seen Kerr or have information about his current whereabouts dial 999 and pass details to North Yorkshire Police stating the “William Kerr appeal”.

If you would prefer to remain anonymous, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting North Yorkshire Police reference number 12150049525 and say it is “urgent”.